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By adding trips to “Compare Trips” (above), you can easily make a side-by-side detailed comparison of as many trips as you like.

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Federico Alban

If you want to know what the Pura Vida lifestyle looks like, look no further than Federico Alban. Though he lived in Spain, Israel, and the United States from age seven to nineteen, Federico is a Costa Rican local at heart and welcomes Wilderness Travel guests to experience all the country has to offer. For the last twelve years, he has led trips for us with the same passion for travel we find our guests “I love my country and having traveled a bit, I can compare,” Frederico says. “Costa Rica is all about the Pura Vida lifestyle. When guests leave, they are not guests anymore, they are now friends.” He spends his free time doing active outdoor activities or at home in the company of his wife, seven-year-old son, and two dogs.

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Client Testimonials:

Federico is one of the most amazing individuals we have ever met. He has a genuine concern for everyone and displayed an incredible extent of knowledge, compassion, and leadership.
Christine F., Costa Rica Adventure
Federico Alban is a particularly special and gifted guide whose presence enhanced our enjoyment of the trip.
Lise J., Portland, OR
Federico Alban was outstanding. He was engaging, warm, attentive, always on time, and broad based in his knowledge. He contributed to my affection for Costa Rica.
Grant M., Reno, NV
WT is lucky to have someone as expert as a naturalist and Trip Leader as Federico. His enthusiasm shines through.
Aviva S., Brookline MACosta Rica Wildlife
Federico was energetic, enthusiastic, and excited about the treasures of his country, which he shared with all of us. It was a real pleasure to be in his company.
Virginia R., Orlando FLCosta Rica Wildlife
Federico had excellent knowledge and lots of enthusiasm. He was very in tune with the needs of all the participants. He was lots of fun to be with.
Patricia O., Pinole CACosta Rica Wildlife
Federico was outstanding. Very knowledgeable, friendly, funny, etc. He took care of issues before they became problems, and was a blast to hang out with for a week.
Sharon S., Cambridge MACosta Rica Adventure
Our guide, Federico, made the trip the best. His knowledge and language skills were only matched by his outgoing peronality, patience, and caring for each of us as individuals.
Joyce C., Blue Bell, PACosta Rica Wildlife
Federico Alban is a wonderful guide with outstanding people and interpersonal skills, and an excellent understanding of the wildlife and culture of Costa Rica. He's one of the best!
Stephen W., San Diego, CACosta Rica Wildlife
Federico was an excellent guide with deep knowledge, good communication skills, and great interpersonal skills.
Karin W., Charlottesville, VACosta Rica Wildlife
Federico is by far the best guide we have ever had. He is passionate about what he does and very sensitive to the needs and expectations of every trip participant.
Miriam F., Englewood, NJCosta Rica Wildlife
Federico Alban is a wonderful guide with outstanding people and interpersonal skills. Excellent understanding of the wildlife and culture of Costa Rica. He's one of the best!
Stephen W., San Diego, CACosta Rica Wildlife
Federico made the trip the best. His knowledge and language skills were only matched by his outgoing peronality, patience, and caring for each of us as individuals.
Joyce C., Blue Bell, PACosta Rica Wildlife

Federico is an impressive ambassador for Wilderness Travel. Part logistics officer and tour guide, he is an organizational treasure.
Ray B., Springfield, ORCosta Rica Wildlife
Federico was a star in every respect, with excellent knowledge of the fauna and flora and a terrific personality to match.
Phillip M., Hampshire, EnglandCosta Rica Wildlife
Federico was awesome...very kind, patient, and knowledgeable. He made the trip so enjoyable!
Dorothy P., Las Vegas, NVCosta Rica Wildlife
What a smart and personable guy. He did a great job moving us through a wonderful experience, allowing just the right amount of time for everything and listening to each traveler's special interests.
Linda K., Berkeley, CACosta Rica Wildlife
Frederico was outstanding. His level of knowledge of birds, animals, plants, and ecosystems was extensive, and he has a very engaging manner in sharing it. We learned so much at every location, and his enthusiasm made each day a pleasure.
Rami C., Newtown, PACosta Rica Wildlife
Federico was the best—warm, related, extremely helpful, was always available, and made sure all our needs were met.
Barbara P., New York, NYCosta Rica Wildlife
Federico's knowledge of culture, environment, history, etc. is exceptional, and his ability to spot animals and direct viewers is remarkable. He has a lovely temperament and is charming and forthcoming with comments on all aspects of Costa Rican life.
Sally S., Oakland, CACosta Rica Wildlife
Frederico was FABULOUS. He worked constantly to explain all we were seeing and making sure we had everything we needed. We all loved him.
Berkeley H., Greensboro, NCCosta Rica Wildlife
I can't imagine a better guide than Frederico. In many ways, he MADE the trip. He was extremely knowledgeable, took excellent care of us, and was FUN! He was exceptional...off the charts...in every way.
Gigi S., La Jolla, CACosta Rica Wildlife
Could not have asked for a more knowledgeable and personable guide!
Margaret H., Falls Church, VACosta Rica Wildlife
Federico was extraordinary and, although the trip would have been very enjoyable in any event, he raised it to a higher level of excellence. He was extremely knowledgeable about Costa Rican history and politics as well as about all things flora and fauna. He has a delightful, upbeat personality, and his enthusiasm is contagious. He is a very special person. Bravo, Federico!!
Roger & Elaine B., Roslyn Heights, NYCosta Rica Wildlife